Home Health Care Services

Rent a Daughter is medical care that is provided at your home by trained professionals such as nurses and physical, occupational and speech therapists. It is ordered by your doctor and is based on your specific needs. Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance often cover the cost of home health care services.

The goal of home health care is to help you recover from a medical event, illness or surgery and remain as independent as possible while living at home. Home health care can also provide short-term treatment for a chronic condition. It may be a good choice for you if you need help recovering from a recent hospitalization or are staying at home after a stay in a rehabilitation or skilled nursing facility.

Eligibility requirements for home health care include a doctor’s order, an initial visit from a member of the home health team and an assessment of your needs. The plan of care must be short-term and intermittent (not continuous). You need to be homebound, meaning leaving your home is a major effort that requires the use of a wheelchair or other device or involves a trip that could make you sick.

Many people receiving home health care have family members or other informal caregivers who assist with daily activities. While these support persons are beneficial to patients, it is important for professional clinicians to know what is occurring in the patient’s home environment. This information can be used to identify and address barriers to quality care, such as falls, pressure ulcers and nonhealing wounds.

The responsibilities of the home health care team members vary according to your need and may include a nurse, a physical or occupational therapist or a speech-language pathologist. Some providers also deliver medication, supply equipment and give education to family members on the patient’s medical condition and recovery. Dietitians can visit the home to assess the patient’s diet and nutritional status. Lab tests, including blood and urine, can be performed in the home. In addition, a home health agency can provide equipment such as oxygen and walkers. Home health aides can help patients with their personal care needs, such as bathing and dressing. They may also help with meal preparation, household chores and shopping for necessities.

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